NRL Grand Final 2017: Johnthan Thurston sent Cooper Cronk a text message in the lead up to the decider

There’s no doubt Johnathan Thurston is hoping his Cowboys can ruin Cooper Cronk’s farewell match for the Storm in tonight’s NRL Grand Final but the injured North Queensland halfback paid tribute to his Maroons teammate for an astonishing career.

Cronk will potentially play his last NRL game in Storm colours and hang up the boots altogether after tonight’s decider. And Thurston revealed he sent his Queensland teammate a text message in the lead up to the big game.

"I texted him yesterday saying it’s been a pleasure to play along side you in so many games." Thurston told The Sunday Footy Show.

"We’ve had a lot of great memories not only on the field but off it as well.

Southern Cross Group Stadium - Sunday August 26th, 4:00 am

Dragons

Bulldogs

UOW Jubilee Oval - Sunday August 26th, 6:10 am

The injured Thurston will be watching the grand final from the stands after hurting his shoulder months ago and was asked what he’d be willing sacrifice in order to play in the last match of the NRL season.